Chapter 37: Chapter 37

Cecília

I never thought I would go through something like this. My life plan was to graduate, start working with Dad, marry a man who loves me more than anything in life, and have lots of kids with him. Being kidnapped was definitely not on the list.

I confess that I was afraid of Thomas not showing up. While I was sure he would do anything to find me, a little piece of my heart was afraid he wouldn't show up.

But when Thomas said he loves me, all those fears were put to rest. He loves me! My God, what a mess everything has become over the last few months. And I can't believe it's almost over. College is over and we're going back to Brazil soon. My things are already packed and Thomas is sorting out some company errands, so I take the opportunity to say goodbye to Kelly.

"I can't believe this is the last time you shopped with me!" She complains and pouts. I laugh and sit down in the restaurant chair she dragged me to after entering each of the stores in the mall. She has more bags than I can count, and I ended up buying a thing or two for myself too.

"Not the last time!" I say and laugh when her pout gets bigger. — I come to visit you. And you have to promise to visit me too.

I feel my eyes teary with the longing I'm going to feel for her. Kelly was my best friend for many years and I can't imagine what my life would be like without her everyday antics.

The waiter arrives and we order our food. When he's gone, she holds my hand across the table.

- Lively? she asks with twinkling eyes. "Ready to leave with the handsome CEO?"

I feel my face heat up and look away. Kelly laughs and slaps my hand.

“I still can't believe all this,” I say and bite my lip. — In a few weeks, I'm going to start the job I've always dreamed of having, I'm going to live close to my parents again...

“You're marrying the handsome CEO.

"Stop saying 'handsome CEO'!" I complain and she laughs.

- You found your prince charming after all - she says and opens a huge smile. — A love story like you always wanted.

“With the right to kidnapping and all,” I comment and make a face. I still have nightmares about that day. It's been almost a month and the guy has been arrested. Thomas hasn't let go of me since then and won't let me out of his sights, and I like it, I feel safe that way.

- Are you well? she asks looking at me worriedly. I nod. I am yes. — I was so worried when I found out, Cecília!

“Thomas was there,” I say after a few seconds. And that's all I need to say, because it's the only truth that matters. Thomas was there and I understood that he will always be there. You will always be with me, you will always take care of me.

Things may have started out very wrong, but none of that matters anymore. And I'm really, really ready for the rest of my life with him.